How to Sow

For good tuber development, plant potatoes in deep, loose, well-drained soil that is free of stones. They also need full sun for the tops of the plants to grow well. Plant tubers as soon as you receive them, after danger of heavy frost in spring in the North, and in fall through February in the South. Either plant the tubers whole, or cut them into pieces with 2 or 3 "eyes" each and spread them out in a well-ventilated place to dry for 24 hours before planting. Plant them with the eyes up, 2-3" deep and 10-12" apart in rows 2 apart. The tops of the developing tubers should not be exposed to sunlight, or they will turn green. (Green patches on potato tubers are poisonous and should be discarded.)

How to Grow

When the plants are about 5-6" tall, begin to heap soil around the base of the stems, or surround the plants with a thick layer of mulch. Water regularly throughout the season. If their growth slows due to dry weather and then starts again in wet weather, the tubers can form knobs. The tubers can also develop cavities inside when the plants dont have a consistent supply of water.

Harvesting

For "new" potatoes, harvest about 10 weeks after planting. When potato blossoms appear, it is a sign that the first new potatoes are ready for harvest. Simply feel around in the soil with your fingers for the small tubers. Try not to damage the roots of the plant or you may reduce the main harvest. Harvest mature potatoes after the tops die back and before the first frost. Dig carefully to avoid damaging the tubers. After harvesting mature potatoes, store them in a dark, dry place for a week at 65-70°F. Then store them at 35-40°F at fairly high humidity. Potatoes do not freeze well.